Creative household items’ uses

Family finances are being stretched, and with almost no end to the recession in sight, more and more people are looking for ways to save money.

While many people are reducing their driving habits and cutting back on spending, there are a few ways to save money and have some fun.

Flavored water

Who would have thought that water, yet alone flavored water, would become a multibillion dollar industry. Rather than paying for flavored water, why not make your own? It can be as simple as adding slices of fruit in water.

By adding a slice of lemon or an orange, you are saving money. It may not be as glamorous, but you will be surprised on how good it tastes.

Flower vases

Flowers have to be kept somewhere, and vases can be expensive, but have you ever thought about making your own?

An empty glass bottle can become the perfect vase with a little paint. Rather than showing your loved one you like a certain drink, repaint the bottle. It can be a basic color, or be creative by painting on designs.

Wrapping Paper

Although it is tradition to wrap gifts in wrapping paper, an old newspaper can do the job, and they are a lot cheaper. You can also use some old cloth and other items around the house to add a personal touch.

Tea Cup Candles

When purchasing tea cups, plates are not often thought about, but once they break, the whole tea cup experience can be ruined. Rather than having an incomplete set, transform it into a candle. Take some old candles and melt them down.

The best way to do this is by setting a smaller pan on top of a larger pan of simmering water. Try to keep the temperature at 185 degrees. Once the wax starts to melt, remove the wick with tongs.

Cut a piece of wick to the cup’s height, but remember to add 2 inches to it, to allow the necessary space needed to light it later on. Clamp one end to a wick sustainer and tie the other end around a skewer. Dip the wick and sustainer into melted wax. Remove and stick sustainer to the tea cup’s bottom.

Once this is done, pour in the wax, but stop the wax half an inch below the cup’s rim. The wax should be set in about an hour. If the surface is uneven, use another skewer to prick a circle of holes around the wick. Pour the melted wax until the surface is one-quarter inch below the rim. Cut the wick and enjoy your new candle.

Homemade air purifiers

Plug-in and spray air fresheners have made millions off an idea that is done by a plant. Houseplants have been known for years to purify air, and rather than having to constantly change fresheners, try purchasing a plant. Watering a plant is a lot cheaper than purchasing replacements filters for plug-in fresheners.

Homemade organizers

One advantage of how quickly children go through cereal is that the leftover boxes can be used as organizers. Cut the box on a downward angle, and you can use it to store books.

Afternoon Update Newsletter

Have our latest news, sports and obituaries emailed directly to you Monday through Friday.